Ghatarani waterfall is the largest waterfall in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. It is located in Durg, in the Raipur district of Chhattisgarh. It is a well-known picnic spot for the locals, with its tranquil waters and peaceful serenity. The pleasant symphony of the gushing water as it runs forward to descend to the earth below is a beauty to behold. Situated at a distance of 85 kilometers from Raipur, Ghatarani is the highest waterfall in Chhattisgarh. The waterfall is surrounded by dense vegetation and lush green flora, which makes it a popular picnic spot by the locals, and a place of interest of tourists. Boasting of various adventurous sports like rock climbing, and brisk exercises like hiking and trekking through its carpeted forests, Ghatarani provides a different and refreshing experience to the visitors than any other waterfall in the state.
Ghatarani waterfall derives its name from the temple of the deity Ghatarani, situated in its vicinity. The goddess is divinely worshipped by pious devotees, and the temple is frequented by visitors likewise.
The waterfall of Ghatarani is a natural waterfall, untouched and uninterrupted by human interference. Within the premises of this waterfall, the temple of the deity Ghatarani, who is the worshipped goddess in this region, has been constructed. The waterfall also derives its name from the temple of Ghatarani.
Tourists can find several activities to keep them engaged in Ghatarani. The pool formed at the base of the waterfall is the perfect location for swimming and dipping. It gives a stark and crystal clear picture of the plunging water in the lush green forest floor. The forest is also suitable for hiking and trekking, owing to its vast terrain of untouched and uninterrupted vivid flora and fauna. Rock climbing is a popular adventure sport here, where tourists can look beyond the scope of the waterfall from a different perspective.
The waterfall is open to public visits every day of the week, 24 hours a day, with the most recommended duration being 7 am to 7 pm. There are no entry charges, neither for locals and foreign nationals nor for cameras and electronic devices. However, pets aren't allowed inside the premises of the waterfall. The trek duration is 7 to 8 hours and starts as early as 5 am. The trekking charges are 300 per head, with guides available.
Although, staying away from the pool is advisable in the monsoon season when the tumultuous showers turn the terrain into a slippery coast prone to accidents. Approaching the rocks near the waterfall needs due to caution and control of footing. Also, tourists are advised to visit the waterfall during day time, as the terrain is not easily approachable.
The adjoining places of tourist interest are the Jatmai Temple and its waterfall, 25 kilometers away from Ghatarani, and accessible by public transport or cab.
Food can be taken inside the premises of the waterfall, with due instructions to avoid littering. The food can be obtained from the nearby area of Rajim where local dhabbas can be found. Chhattisgarh is known as the 'Rice Bowl of India', and it is not surprising that a vast number of recipes in many menus include dishes dealing with rice and rice flour. Rice is extensively used to prepare indigenous recipes for Cheela and Chausela roti. 'Dahi', or curd, or buttermilk, flavored or unflavoured, is a must in every meal for promoting good gut performance and overall health. Bengali and Odia cuisine is also served here, catering to the needs of the tourists from neighboring states. Tourists can experience a myriad of different flavors owing to the different sauces and pickles served along with the main course. Apart from these, the common preparations of curries and desserts popular all across India are also served in local restaurants and hotels.
Inside the waterfall, tourists are advised to bring their food and water, with due instructions to avoid littering in its premises.
The best time to visit any waterfall is after the monsoon, when the much-needed rainfall enriches the terrain with greenery and vegetation, along with brimming water levels. The summer months dry up the pool and the scorching heat makes it unsuitable for tourist engagement, whereas the environment during monsoon is laden the terrain with a slippery disposition. Hence, the months of October to March would be the perfect time to visit the Ghatarani waterfalls.
A one day stay at Durg is more than enough for exploring the Ghatarani Temple and waterfall, and the adjoining Jatmai Temple and waterfall. Local public transport, auto-rickshaws, and cabs can be used to commute between the same. Lodging for luxury tourists for a day can range within the budget of 2 thousand to 3 thousand, whereas tourists exploring the town in a day can do so within a budget of one thousand, all-encompassing the catering charges.
Address Details: Abhanpur Tehsil, Durg, Raipur district, Chhattisgarh P. I. N. Code: 4493109 India